The Strangest Ways Seafood Is Eaten Around the World

Seafood isn’t just grilled shrimp, baked salmon, or crispy calamari. Around the world, there are seafood traditions that might feel unusual—even shocking—but for millions of people, they’re part of culture, history, and everyday life.

From fermented fish in Sweden to live octopus in Korea, seafood tells stories far beyond the plate. Here’s a journey through some of the strangest seafood dishes around the world—and what they reveal about how we eat.

1. Fermented Fish in Sweden: Surströmming

One of the most infamous seafood dishes globally, Surströmming is fermented Baltic herring known for its extremely strong smell. Opening the can alone is considered an experience.

Why do people eat it?

• It’s a traditional dish in Northern Sweden.
• Usually served with flatbread, potatoes, onions, and sour cream.
• The appeal lies in its intense salty and sour flavor.

If fermented seafood feels too extreme, you can start with something more approachable like smoked fish—rich, flavorful, and perfect for light meals.

2. Fermented Skate in Korea: Hongeo

Hongeo is a Korean dish made from fermented skate fish. It releases a strong ammonia-like aroma, making it one of the most challenging seafood experiences for newcomers.

How is it served?

• Often paired with kimchi.
• Sometimes served alongside pork or strong-flavored sides.
• Popular in specific regions with deep cultural roots.

Not all seafood needs to be this intense. If you prefer clean, balanced flavors, explore premium salmon options for versatile cooking.

3. Jellied Eels in London

Jellied eels are a traditional East London dish made by boiling eel in a seasoned stock, which cools into a natural jelly.

What makes it unusual?

• Served cold.
• Gelatinous texture.
• Deep roots in working-class food culture.

While textures like this might not appeal to everyone, you can enjoy seafood in more familiar ways with seafood mixes and shellfish.

4. Lutefisk in Norway

Lutefisk is a Nordic dish made from dried white fish treated with lye, then rehydrated and cooked. The result is a very soft, jelly-like texture.

Why is it eaten?

• Traditionally served during holidays.
• Originated as a preservation method before refrigeration.
• Typically paired with butter, potatoes, or sauces.

Modern seafood processing focuses on preserving quality without altering taste—like freezing and packaging methods used in today’s premium seafood products.

5. Live Octopus in Korea: Sannakji

Sannakji is a Korean dish where freshly cut octopus is served immediately. The pieces may still move due to nerve activity.

What makes it unique?

• Extremely fresh texture.
• Served with sesame oil and salt.
• Requires careful chewing.

If you’re curious about octopus but prefer a safer option, explore ready-to-cook selections from Seafood Factory products.

6. Sea Urchin (Uni) in Japan and Italy

Sea urchin, known as Uni in Japan, is considered a delicacy. It has a creamy texture and a strong ocean flavor, often served raw in sushi or pasta dishes.

Why is it unusual?

• Spiky exterior.
• Intense marine taste.
• Soft, custard-like texture.

For a more accessible gourmet seafood experience, try preparing sushi-style dishes using Asian seafood ingredients.

7. Fish Roe and Caviar

Fish roe, especially caviar, is considered a luxury ingredient across many cuisines. Small in size but rich in flavor, it adds depth and sophistication to dishes.

How is it used?

• Served on toast or blinis.
• Paired with butter or cream.
• Used in appetizers and fine dining plates.

Seafood doesn’t always need to be a main dish—sometimes small additions make the biggest impact.

8. Calamari Beyond the Usual

Calamari is often known as fried rings, but globally it appears in many forms: stuffed, grilled, cooked in tomato sauces, or even used in black-ink pasta dishes.

Why is it so versatile?

• Mild flavor that absorbs seasoning well.
• Works across multiple cooking methods.
• Quick to prepare when handled correctly.

Explore different ways to cook calamari with options from seafood collections or save time with ready-to-cook products.

What Do These Dishes Tell Us?

These unusual dishes aren’t just about shock value. Each one reflects a culture, a climate, or a historical need—whether it’s preservation, tradition, or local taste preferences.

Key takeaways:

• Seafood is one of the most diverse protein sources globally.
• Preparation methods define the final experience.
• Texture is just as important as flavor in many cuisines.
• Quality handling makes all the difference.

You Don’t Have to Start with the Strangest

Exploring seafood doesn’t mean jumping straight into extreme dishes. Sometimes the best experience starts with something simple—perfectly cooked salmon, crispy shrimp, or a quick seafood pasta.

Discover premium seafood options from salmon, shrimp, smoked fish, and more to create your own restaurant-style meals at home.

Conclusion

The strangest seafood dishes around the world show just how creative and diverse food culture can be. Whether you prefer bold experiments or familiar flavors, it all starts with high-quality ingredients.

Start your seafood journey today: Browse all Seafood Factory products or visit the homepage to explore premium seafood delivered to your door.